Keep Eye Safety in Mind When Choosing Holiday Gifts for Kids [VIDEO]

To keep children’s eyes safe from injury this holiday season, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has issued these five EyeSmart toy-buying tips:

1. Avoid purchasing toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts.
2. Make sure children have appropriate supervision when playing with potentially hazardous toys or games that could cause an eye injury.
3. Along with sports equipment, give children the appropriate protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses. Check with your Eye M.D. to learn about protective gear recommended for your child's sport.
4. Check labels for age recommendations and be sure to select gifts that are appropriate for a child's age and maturity.
5. Keep toys that are made for older children away from younger children.

“Many toys have the potential to cause eye injuries,” said David G. Hunter, M.D., Ph.D., a pediatric ophthalmologist and spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Being aware and thoughtful about what you are putting in your children's hands is the best preventative medicine.  A good rule of thumb for parents is to choose toys that are appropriate for their child's age and abilities, as well as the parents’ willingness to supervise use of the toy.”

If your child does suffer an eye injury from a toy, seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist.

Click on the video to the right of this article to learn more about buying toys that are safe for your children’s eyes.